I am currently working on a model, and as most models this model has a large number of parameters. I'd like to model these parameters and see the results and was wondering if it is necessary to rerun the entire simulation or simply update the solution? If it matters I am trying to solve for laminar flow and would like to see the changes which result from changing the fluid viscosity. I am also working on solving mass transport and would like to do similar things with the parameters incorporated in that model.

Re: When is it OK to update a solution instead of resolving a solution?

Hi Pat,

if the parameters change the physically relevant geometry, material properties or boundary conditions you have to re-solve the model.

If you only add geometry elements like points, lines and surfaces for postprocessing (without a physical impact to the model, i.e. without adding boundary conditions) I think it is sufficient to update the solution. This will then make these entities available for selection in the post processing.

That's my two cents, I can't guarantee that it is the complete picture. In my modeling experience I never came across a parameter study that didn't require solving the model for each parameter dimension and parameter step.